Preseason action means little when it comes to fantasy football, but there are indicators that each of us can look at when drawing conclusions about who might have breakout seasons.
Friday's slate of games did give us an understanding about where specific players stand, how they'll be utilized and what to expect from them moving forward. Let's take a look at a few different notes that we came away with.
New England Patriots Running Backs Are Studs
Stevan Ridley opened up Friday's action against the Philadelphia Eagles with a 61-yard scamper on the Patriots first play from scrimmage. Overall, Ridley put up 92 yards on eight carries in just a couple series of action. Interestingly enough, New England didn't pass the ball a single time in its initial scoring drive to open up the game. While it did give Tom Brady a chance to find a rhythm in its second possession, New England's offensive attack was run based. It put up 248 yards on 31 rushes.
Shane Vereen, who is starting to get more play as a PPR running back option, scored New England's second touchdown on a 13-yard pass from Brady. Vereen tallied 30 yards on four touches in limited playing time.
It was, however, LeGarrette Blount who stole the show in his first game with the Patriots. He broked off a 51-yard run and put up over 100 rushing yards on just 11 attempts.
Some may worry that these running backs will handcuff one another, but considering the Patriots' issues at wide receiver and tight end; there will be plenty of attempts to go around. If Friday is any indication, New England's ground attack will be a force in 2013.
Alex Smith Will be Given the Keys on Offense
Smith was mighty impressive in his Chiefs' debut. He led the club on a long 15-play, 80-yard scoring drive to open things up against the New Orleans Saints. In the process, Smith completed seven of eight passes for 68 yards; completing passes to four different receiving options.
Head coach Andy Reid, also making his debut, called 41 passing plays compared to just 17 on the ground. It was his goal to open up the offense and see just how much that side of the ball has improved. If Smith's performance on the opening drive was any indication, he'll be able to handle the passing game pretty well. As it is, he could be a solid sleeper as an under-the-radar QB1 option.
Dez Bryant and Calvin Johnson Show Domination is Likely in 2013
As two of the top fantasy receivers, heck maybe the top-two fantasy players at this position, Bryant and Johnson absolutely dominated in every way. Johnson caught all three of Matthew Stafford's completions, going for 58 yards in the process. Overall, he was light years ahead of Jets' defensive backs throughout the duration of his limited playing time.
Bryant also dominated in his first action of the preseason with Cowboys' starter Tony Romo. He caught three passes, on as many targets, for 55 yards. The talented receiver completely overpowered former teammate Mike Jenkins in the Cowboys' first two possessions.